Cruise to Westerplatte

Travel to the place where history began

During your stay in Gdańsk, it is worth enriching your sightseeing plan with a cruise to Westerplatte - a place that has become a symbol of heroism and the beginning of World War II. Just a few kilometers from the city center, in the heart of a picturesque port, you can embark on a fascinating water journey along the Motława River, which will not only allow you to see historical waterfronts but also reach one of the most important memorial sites in Poland.

From the Marina Club hotel, located at 10 Szafarnia Street, it is just a few steps to the marina, from which sightseeing boats regularly set sail for Westerplatte. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the city's history from the water and to travel back in time to September 1939, when the German aggression against Poland began at Westerplatte.

Westerplatte – a symbol of heroism

Westerplatte, located at the mouth of the Dead Vistula River to the Gdańsk Bay, is a unique place both historically and scenically. Here, on September 1, 1939, the German battleship Schleswig-Holstein opened fire on the Polish military outpost, which is considered the symbolic beginning of World War II. Despite the overwhelming superiority of the enemy, the Polish crew, commanded by Major Henryk Sucharski, heroically defended the Military Transit Warehouse for seven days, becoming a model of courage and determination for future generations.

Today, Westerplatte is a vast historical area with several important points, such as the remnants of barracks, guardhouses, and the ruins of defensive structures. The most recognizable feature is the monumental Monument to the Defenders of the Coast, erected in the 1960s, which commemorates Polish soldiers fighting in the early days of the war. The monument, standing over 25 meters tall, is visible from afar and is one of the most important places of national remembrance.

Cruise to Westerplatte – a tourist attraction for the whole family

The cruise to Westerplatte is not only an exceptional historical journey, but also an unforgettable tourist experience. The sightseeing boats departing from the Motława waterfront offer a comfortable journey during which you can admire the beautiful views of Gdańsk and its port facilities. During the cruise, numerous monuments and interesting sites are passed, such as the Gdańsk Crane, a former port crane from the 15th century, which is one of the city's most recognizable symbols, as well as modern shipyard infrastructure that recalls Gdańsk's industrial heritage.

The journey lasts about 30-40 minutes one way, making it an ideal attraction for the whole family – not too long for children to enjoy, yet interesting enough for everyone to take away something special. Upon arrival at Westerplatte, you can explore the area on foot, using the prepared educational paths and information boards describing the course of the battles and the history of this place.

Stroll through the Old Town – continuation of sightseeing in Gdańsk

After returning from Westerplatte, it is worth spending time further exploring the charming Old Town of Gdańsk. The area around the Marina Club hotel is full of fascinating monuments and attractions that allow for a deeper understanding of the history and culture of this city. Strolling along the Long Waterfront, you can see the aforementioned Crane, and then head towards Long Market, where the Neptune Fountain – a symbol of Gdańsk's ties to the sea – is located.

It is also worth visiting the St. Mary's Basilica, the largest brick temple in Europe, whose interior delights with its magnificence and unique works of sacred art. From the tower of the basilica, there is a beautiful view of the entire city, which is particularly worth seeing at sunset.

In the immediate vicinity of the hotel, there is also the European Solidarity Centre, one of the most modern museums in Poland, which presents the history of the Solidarity movement and political changes in Poland in an interesting way. This is an ideal place for those who want to deepen their knowledge of the country's recent history.

Gdańsk – a city full of history and modernity

The cruise to Westerplatte is just one of many attractions that Gdańsk has to offer. Due to its strategic location on the Baltic Sea, the city has played a key role in trade and politics in the region for centuries. Today, Gdańsk is a dynamically developing cultural and tourist center that attracts millions of visitors from around the world.

Walking through the Old Town, you can admire the unique architecture, whose beauty lies in the details – richly decorated facades of tenement houses, intricate sculptures, and charming alleys. It is also worth stopping at one of the numerous cafes or restaurants that serve both local specialties and international cuisine.

Why choose the Marina Club hotel as a base for exploring?

The Marina Club hotel, located at 10 Szafarnia Street, is an excellent base for exploring Gdańsk and its surroundings. The proximity to the marina from which boats sail to Westerplatte, as well as the convenient location near the most important tourist attractions, make it an ideal place for families, couples, or business travelers.

Comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and exceptional service ensure that every guest will feel special here. After a day full of experiences, you can relax in the hotel restaurant, savoring delicious dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.